The headwaters of the Kokolik River are the very Northwestern extreme of the Brooks Range and there is ample solitude and room to roam. The only trails in the area are those made by passing caribou. There are no campgrounds, no other hikers, and not even any footprints on our route through the mountains. We trade the noise of civilization for nearly 24 hour daylight, long vistas, quiet canyons, and the possibility of wildlife around every corner.

Starting in near the continental divide surrounded by craggy peaks, we spend our first evening scanning the cliffs for Dall Sheep. As we head north the vistas open up and the tundra rolls northward. The wide open plains, home to musk oxen and myriad birds, are etched with deep caribou trails.

We follow these ancient paths north towards the Kokolik, alert for animal encounters at all times. The hiking won’t be easy, but in return for the hard work of Alaska backpacking, we enjoy rugged colorful peaks, soft green valleys, and (if lucky) abundant wildlife.

We’ll travel about 30 miles with backpacks during the seven days and nearly as many miles on the optional day hikes. The route is an easy one in terms of elevation gain and the terrain covered, but there will be some long days and we’ll need to cross creeks from time to time. Hiking in the arctic is an “off-trail” experience, so a six-mile day can take as long and be as taxing as ten miles in other parts of the world. Experience backpacking is recommended for this trip, but novices in good shape, who are willing to do some training, would enjoy the trip too. Each hiker will carry 15-20 pounds of food and community gear in addition to personal gear; due to the small group size and the trip’s duration, expect to start the trip with a pack weighing no less than 45 pounds.